Freshwater Fisheries
Title:	Fish Assemblage Assessment of New England Rivers
Author(s):	Chris O. Yoder, Lon E. Hersha, Midwest Biodiversity Institute; Hilary Snook, U.S. EPA, Region I
Date:	Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Time:	10:40 am - 11:00 am
Room:	Salon C
Abstract: We conducted an assessment of fish assemblages and habitat in New England rivers using a standardized electrofishing protocol applicable of non-wadeable rivers and streams during 2008-9. The project was designed to test the applicability of sampling methods that were originally developed and applied in Maine and more effectively determine how to distinguish the applicability between wadeable and non-wadeable methods. The assessment of the condition of the fish assemblages includes determining expectations using the Biological Condition Gradient (BCG) and both multivariate and multimetric analyses. The spatial design employed included a high density probabilistic approach across New England and a mix of targeted and probilitistic design in specific mainstem rivers. The results of this project should result in a unified assessment of the condition of fish assemblages for New England Rivers and assessment tools that can be used to satisfy a variety of needs including those associated with water quality, flow, habitat, and diamdromous fish restoration programs.
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